Institutional Statement on Diversity

According to the Catholic faith tradition which grounds the mission and values of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University, "Social justice can be obtained only in respecting the transcendent dignity of the human person" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, III.3.1). This transcendent dignity rests upon the loving affirmation of God, who created humankind in the divine image and calls all people to eternal happiness and fulfillment.

The Church teaches that respect for human dignity entails a duty of "making oneself a neighbor to others and actively serving them," a ministry to all, including "those who think or act differently from us" (III.3.1). The institutions recognize this urgency, as our Catholic and liberal arts tradition makes clear how often those perceived to be different are denied the respect due to them as human persons and are instead marginalized and taught that they do not matter.

Therefore, we commit ourselves to cultivate an inclusiveness and a respect that neither denies nor exaggerates differences. Recognizing our Catholic and liberal arts tradition of respect for human dignity, the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University affirm our mission to teach and foster respect for diversity, to embrace the marginalized and break down the privileges that would exclude those who are different or disadvantaged. Embracing the transcendent dignity of the human person, we accept our common call to build a community and contribute to a larger social world that reflects and celebrates the splendor of human diversity.